Page 53

CONAN

R eclining back in my seat, I let out an exhale.

Hallie hasn’t replied, I guess she’s getting ready for work. Declan strides into my cabin and tears off his mask. We take extra precautions during our Decadence Games to remain anonymous.

“You ready?” he asks, grabbing the whiskey.

“Yeah,” I answer, glancing down at my phone on the desk.

“Pass that here.” He holds out his hand.

“What? No.” I grab the phone.

“Conan. You can’t concentrate if you’re constantly thinking about Hallie.

Or trying to contact her. I know you, brother.

I haven’t seen you like this over a woman before in our whole life.

The more you speak to her, the deeper you’re treading into lying to her.

It’s just a couple of days. Just send a quick text saying Keller is taking your cell so you can concentrate on training.

Then after this is done, we move the fuck on and never talk about it again. ”

I swear to God I’m almost sweating at the thought. No contact? Sounds like hell. But I know he’s right.

Damn, Declan is always right. That’s why he’s the boss.

“Fine,” I huff.

Declan chuckles.

“It’s like we’re kids again. You want me and Finn to go beat up some bullies for you again?”

I roll my eyes.

“That was one fuckin’ time, and I was six. You two were older. Shall we talk about the times I’ve saved your ass? Hmm?”

Declan shakes his head and motions for me to give him the phone.

“I swear to God, since Dad died, I’ve inherited two new ones.”

“Because you behave like our child.”

Touché.

“You seem calmer now, though. I like seeing you more settled, Con. It suits you.”

“It’s Hallie. Honestly, I am convinced she has some sort of chemical effect on my brain. When I’m with her, I’m like a goofy teenager, desperate to please her. To make her laugh.”

Declan nods.

“That’s called being in love, brother.”

Fuck, that pain in my chest is back. I think I knew early on that she was stealing my heart, and I didn’t do a damn thing to stop her. I hope she feels the same way.

I ignore his comment and type out the message.

ME

Hi, gorgeous. So, Grayson has demanded that my phone gets locked away for a couple of days so I can concentrate on the boot camp. As soon as I get it back, I’ll call you and be on my way back to you. If you need anything, call Finn. He will have his phone still. I miss you. XX

As soon as it goes through, Declan swipes the phone out of my hand and pockets it.

“I’ll keep it charged and safe at mine. Okay?”

“Yes, Dad.” I fake a grin.

“Don’t make me beat your ass, Conan.”

I bite my lip to hold back the grin.

“Try me.”